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What Were They Thinking?

September 22, 2008 RH 1 Comment

We’re in the home stretch of our Brooklyn brownstone renovation. Not really, but we’ve done 3 out of 4 floors plus hallway and laundry room. It only took us 3 years to get to this point. Well, a year and a 2 year break.

Anyway, the point of this post is to let everyone know that we have seen it all. This is our fourth DIY renovation and we’ve witnessed some pretty crappy work from previous owners and “contractors”.

A few things we’ve encountered:

1. Carpeting over rotting floor. (1st home)

2. Modular home not bolted together. (2nd home)

3. Support beams cut away to make room for pipes. (3rd home)

4. Workers put screws in our gas line after we fired them. When we turned on the gas supply to the stove, the screws fell into the valve so it could not be turned off. Luckily, the hubby decided to turn it on to blow out some dust before connecting, which is the only reason we discovered it. (1st home)

But ah, the Bed Stuy house wins the prize.

1. Boiler venting into the fireplace.

2. Tile floor under bathtub sitting on concrete directly on joists. Rotted joists.

3. Spliced two prong extension cord running up from basement instead of installation of new outlets.

4. Old penny fuse box. 1 fuse per floor.

5. Leaky gas stove.

And that was just some of the dangerous stuff. I haven’t even covered the cosmetics (like mirrors glued directly to plaster walls). But this weekend as I stripped paint from wainscoting caked in plaster, I reached my breaking point. It’s bad enough to strip 50 years of paint, but what’s with the plaster??? Like 1/2 inch. Yes, the wood was cracked, but what’s wrong with a touch of wood putty? Why the plaster? And caulk? Why? It took me all day to strip 3 panels.

But then why should it surprise me coming from people who let their kids write on the walls?

People, man.

Reclaimed Wine Barrel Flooring

September 19, 2008 RH 4 Comments

Wine Cellar Designs

You’ve probably seen recycled wine barrel bars and wine barrel chairs. I love this stuff, but it doesn’t fit every home. Perhaps it’s a tad goofy. But the floor! Ah, the reclaimed wine barrel floor! How could you not love that? It may look like any other reclaimed oak floor, but the numbers are what makes it. Is the $39 per square foot worth it though? Maybe not. You could always fake it. Stamp or burn some numbers into the wood before sealing and there you go.

Via Luxury Housing Trends

Green Home Huddle

September 18, 2008 RH 1 Comment

Ok, I have to write fast before my computer dies again. Basically, I was told that it’s an $800 fix, so I’m just going to run this thing into the ground. The Mac doctor showed me a way around my problem, but let me know I should back everything up every chance I get. And I should live each day as if it’s the last because we don’t know when it’s going to happen, but it’s going to happen. Could be a day, could be six months, but my computer doesn’t have long to live.

So anyway, back to the post subject: Green Home Huddle! The site is only 5 months old and it’s looking pretty mahvelous. There’s a lot going on there…. eco-friendly product reviews, wiki and forum. It’s a fun way to waste time, but since it’s totally informative, you can do so without the guilt. So go check it out now because your laptop is not going to last forever. Make each moment count.

Events:Brooklyn, Birds & Barack

September 17, 2008 RH 1 Comment

I’m a cuttin’ and a pastin’ these emails I received. Hey, at least I’m a postin’!

“On Thursday, September 18th, the Center for the Urban Environment will host Green Brooklyn…Green City-drawing over 3000 residents from all five boroughs to a full day symposium event at Brooklyn’s Borough Hall. “Green Brooklyn…Green City is unique in its sheer size and breadth,” says Aisha Glover, Director of Public Affairs and organizer of the event, “its New York City’s largest showcase of green and sustainability issues, programs, and products.”

At the 4th Annual Green Brooklyn event, businesses, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies come from across the five boroughs to share ideas with the public about how to live greener in their everyday lives. This year’s partnership with Greenmarket expands the event exponentially and couples the great work of the Council on the Environment of NYC with the Center’s own innovative programming. “Relationships like these,” says Sandi Franklin, Executive Director of the Center, “confirm the city’s status as a place of partnership and innovation. This great city is in the forefront of sustainability issues nation-wide.”

It is not surprising, then, that the event features some of the city’s preeminent leaders-from Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz to
businesses like Icestone and Green Depot.

With over 75 exhibitors on site, attendees can learn first-hand from local experts about socially conscious investing, how to solar your building, choosing non-toxic home products (and of course where to buy them!) how real urbanites compost, shopping eco-chic, and what New York City is doing to create a more sustainable future. Some are ‘events within events’ like the film showing of King Corn, a documentary that tells the seed-to-plate story of a crop that drives our nation-and a sustainability panel for nonprofits that features a number of community leaders, including pioneering nonprofits such as Sustainable South Bronx, Fifth Avenue Committee and Solar One.

“Green Brooklyn… Green City is in its fourth incarnation-and is reaching more and more New Yorkers every year,” agreed Franklin. “Its momentum is in close step with the city’s commitment to developing more sustainable communities. We are excited by the energy of this event and are eager to expand our role as a critical resource for discussions about the issues that most affect the future of our city.”

For full details visit greenbrooklyn.org

Birdwatching: Saturday, September 20
9 a.m. – Noon

Tour Guide: Randy Schutz
“We’ll meet on the southeast corner of 81st Streetand Central Park West on the park side entering the Park directly and taking in what wildlife may be in evidence along the way. Dependent on what we find we’ll visit Tanner Spring, the Shakespeare Garden, pass by Belvedere Castle and head into the Ramble. Much will depend on what we find and where we find it.
Almost 200 different species of birds can be found in Central Park during the year. Most birds are more active in the early morning and late afternoon, although there will be some activity throughout the day.
Please dress comfortably, and if possible bring binoculars. If you are new to birding, you will be given a few pointers about using binoculars and doing birding.”

$5 guest fee.

New York Bird Club

Obamatrips to PA from Dutchess County: September 20th & more

“Wilkes-Barre PA needs help canvassing. Stay the day or stay the weekend. We have accommodation options for overnight. Signing-up well in advance helps us with this. We are hoping to make a presence every weekend between now and the election. PLEASE INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION IN YOUR REPLY: 1) * Phone Number * and *email address* and *town you will be leaving from* 2) Are you willing to drive or do you need a ride? 3) Day trip or overnight? Expect to receive specific details of location and arrival time from direct contact by m.whaley@verizon.net. Our efforts will pay off on November 4th. Thank You!”

Hijack This Blog

September 15, 2008 RH 3 Comments

Well, that’s a fine how do you do! On the very morning of Reclaimed Home’s 1st anniversary, my computer dies. Now, being a photographer, I know that the most important thing is to have back up equipment. As a blogger, yeah, not so much.

The closest Mac place to Beacon is in Danbury, a good 45 minutes away. I took the drive on Friday only to have them inform me my computer will have to be sent to the main repair location. That’s in Texas. And as luck would have it, they’ve evacuated because of Ike. Here’s where you realize what a selfish cow I am. People have much larger problems due to the hurricane, but all I care about is my computer. I know. I know.

Anyway, I don’t know when I’m getting my computer back since I couldn’t even leave it there yet. Right now I’m on my husband’s PC. It’s slow as sh*t and doesn’t even have good photo editing software. Makes for some very unpleasant blogging.

So if anyone feels like guest posting or trying their hand at blogging, shoot me an email and I’ll post it. Otherwise I might just have to rant about things off the top of my head.

Throwing More Eco-Friendly Parties

September 15, 2008 RH

This is a guest article written by Daniel Harrison, who has a great interest in eco-gadgets and getting people being a little bit greener with easy home eco tips.

Parties can be a great way of creating a lot of waste in a short time – drinks bottles, plastic plates and cups, discarded wrapping paper and so on. But there are methods you can try to make all parties more eco-friendly without breaking the bank.

Disposable products are the most convenient solution for busy people trying to plan a party. They also make cleaning up a lot easier and eliminate the risk of broken glasses etc. However, such products put strain on the earth’s environment and resources. The good news is that there are ways in which you can help to combat this waste. There is a growing selection of eco-friendly disposable products now available.

They are made from completely biodegradable sources so do not harm the environment, and they are as useful and as simple for a party as regular plastic cups and plates. You could also hire a company to provide cutlery and plates where they wash them all afterwards and take them away again, allowing you to throw an eco-friendly party without that extra effort.

An eco-friendly way to go about clearing up at the end of the party is to be constantly thinking about which items in the mess can actually be reused. For example, there may be wrapping paper in almost perfect condition, gift bags and so on that can be used again.

If you are hosting a childrens party then you are probably also going to be handing out party bags, which provides another large source of waste. However, there are companies that offer special eco-friendly bags that are recycled or reusable. When filling the bags you may also consider using products such as fair-trade items (chocolates and so on).

When shopping for your party products it may seem daunting at first. However, fair trade products are available in most supermarkets, though you may have to look a little harder for biodegradable disposable cups and recycled plastic bags. There are plenty of internet companies now specialising in environmentally friendly party items, so do your research online and you will be able to get products
delivered straight to your door in time for your party.

Happy Birthday To Reclaimed Home!

September 12, 2008 RH 4 Comments

Reclaimed Home is one year old today. Woo-hoo. To celebrate, I’m going to pat myself on the back and take the day off. Enjoy some my favorite posts past that I’m about to regurgitate.

All Hail Eddie: Brooklyn’s Salvage King!

September 12, 2008 RH 13 Comments

**Archive. Originally posted October 2, 2007.

His prices are insane!

Stripping Paint

Eddie Hibbert is famous in Brooklyn. At least amongst those of us struggling to restore our 100 year old homes. Located on Greene and Grande in Clinton Hill, Eddie doesn’t have a website. He doesn’t answer his phone. He opens at noon and is closed on Sundays and Mondays. And yet…he can’t handle all the business he gets.

An ex firefighter and member of the Vulcan Society, Eddie found his way into the salvage business some 30 years ago while living in Harlem. A guy who was salvaging brownstone details told him that the artisans who built these fine homes wouldn’t be around forever and the value was bound to go up. Eddie listened. He studied up on antiques and volunteered to help “mentors”. He started out by selling to the antique shops on Atlantic Avenue. His 2 original stores were on Myrtle Avenue.

Apart from the usual Brownstoner crowd, Eddie’s customers range from Williamsburg artists to folks looking for unique headboards such as doors or mantles. He gives work to guys who need it, but has to be careful about whom he takes with him into people’s homes. A long time customer who was there the day I was interviewing Eddie chimed in “He’s too kind hearted for his own good!” Eddie just says “I’m a simple guy.”

What you’ll find: Everything. Dig for it or ask. Doors, Mantles, Fireplace Inserts, Shutters, Newell Posts, Fretwork, Stained Glass…..if it came out of a brownstone, it’s here.

Home Safety Tips for Your Pets

September 12, 2008 RH 4 Comments

**Archive. Originally posted October 23, 2007.

The day the girls made pancakes for breakfast

With all the Iggy hoopla, I was inspired to do another pet post. This is all very obvious stuff, but sinceI do know people whom have lost pets due to….stupidity, I feel the need to spell it out.

I should practice what I preach. My dog got into a pill container just this morning (husband’s fault). Luckily, it was acidophilus, so she’ll be feeling like one healthy mutt today. We put child safety locks on our cabinets, but I think the way that works is that you actually have to remember to lock them.Continue reading Home Safety Tips for Your Pets

FSBO Checklist

September 12, 2008 RH 1 Comment

**Archive. Originally posted October 30, 2007.

So, you think you wanna sell your own home? It’s no picnic, I’ll tell you that. But if you have the time and patience, you can save thousands on broker’s fees. It is true that many a FSBO ends up a broker’s listing because people step into it blindly. Just make sure you do the research and have the personality to handle it.Continue reading FSBO Checklist

Native New Yorkers Surveyed

September 12, 2008 RH 7 Comments

**Archive. Originally posted October 26, 2007.

1993

I put a bunch of old friends to work for me so I can come up with a quickie post for today. This is a completely unscientific survey of native New Yorkers from all 5 boroughs. They are all close to my age (early 40’s).

These were the questions asked:

1. Best affordable neighborhood
2. Where would you live if you could afford any nabe?
3. Favorite restaurant
4. Old NYC or Gentrified?
5. Best weekend getaway
6. Best kept NYC secretContinue reading Native New Yorkers Surveyed

Updating Raised Ranches

September 12, 2008 RH 42 Comments

**Archive. Originally posted November 29, 2007.

Call it what you want. Raised Ranch. Split Level. Bi-Level. Splanch. Nothing is going to make this type of architecture any less hideous. I mean, who thought this was a good idea?

Actually, historians credit Frank Lloyd Wright as the inventor of the split level. No doubt Mr. Wright has been turning in his grave since vinyl siding and shutters started showing up on these homes.Continue reading Updating Raised Ranches

Support Your Local Hardware Store

September 12, 2008 RH 8 Comments

**Archive. Originally posted November 20, 2007.

You don’t get stories like this at Home Depot

It took me awhile to figure out Big Brothers in Bed Stuy is a serious hardware store. I thought they were more of a discount variety shop, with all of the cosmetics and seasonal items displayed outside. When I finally went inside, I realized that they have just about everything packed into that store. And if they don’t have it, they’ll send you to someone who does.

The very first time I walked in nearly 2 years ago, David told me his life story. Turns out we went to the same junior high school but didn’t know each other. He says he was a quiet kid then. I guess he kind of came out of shell. I call him “The Mayor of the neighborhood” now.Continue reading Support Your Local Hardware Store

Retro Countertops

September 12, 2008 RH 6 Comments

**Archive. Originally posted January 30, 2008.

Since we looked at vintage cabinets yesterday, we figured we would give you some options for matching retro laminate countertops.

Formica’s Classic Boomerang: Coral

We all know the biggie: Formica. Their “Classics” collection includes Boomerang, originally designed in the 50’s. This pattern bounces back to us (Get it? Because it’s a boomerang) in 4 historically kitsch colors, including aqua, coral, charcoal and skylark.

Formica’s Classic VirrVarr: Light Blue

Also available from the Classic collection is the VirrVarr, a European pattern. VirrVarr means criss cross in Swedish. This only comes in white and blue.

Read about Formica’s participation in environmental programs such as LEED and Greenguard here.

Nevamar, from Panolam Industries, came out with the Twist N’ Shout retro design not too long ago. There are 3 different color options: orange, blue or yellow.

Nevamar’s LamMate’s “Way Cool Encounter”

Nevamar offers custom print laminates that can allow any digital file to be incorporated into the laminate. They also offer some funky solid colors. They are not as readily available as Formica, so check out their dealer locator.

Nevamar Laminates are Greenguard certified.

Wilson Art’s Retro Mint

Wilson Art offers 4 “retro” designs under it’s Indie Collection. They also have some groovy retro looking designs such as:

Kaleidascope

Mondrian

Plaid

See here for Wilson Art’s Green Guard certification and other environmental info.

The Great Bed Stuy Chicken Rescue

September 12, 2008 RH 18 Comments

**Archive. Originally posted March 3, 2008

Update 3/4: Got word that “Phyllis” the chicken is doing great!

So this is what they mean by “free range chicken”. I was walking around my neighborhood on Saturday, minding my own business, when I see this chicken strolling down Macon Street. I had an appointment, so I just passed by, hoping it would be gone by the time I got back. Well, whaddya know….nobody claimed it.

Grabbed the husband and a cardboard box and barked orders whilst he crawled under cars, in alleyways and got pecked at.

Lemme tell you something. Rescuing and placing a chicken in NYC is a hell of alot easier than doing so with a cat or dog. The chicken people are much more accommodating than overworked domestic pet rescuers. I could’ve gotten away with placing only one call, because by the time I was phoning upstate farm sanctuaries they knew of “the Bed Stuy chicken”.Continue reading The Great Bed Stuy Chicken Rescue

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